This is the fourth in The Fairview Observer’s series of sports features about brothers sharing the Fairview High football field this season.

Zach and Jacob Derrick have a strong bong as brothers, and this fall, that bond has been carried onto the football field as the young men both represent the Fairview High School Yellow Jackets.

Sixteen-year-old Jacob said, “We like playing football together and having each other’s back.”

The boys have both been playing football for seven years, graduating up through the ranks of the Fairview Titans Jr. Pro and Fairview Middle School.

Brothers Zach and Jacob Derrick share strong bond on and off the football field.(Photo: Lisa Anderson/For The Fairview Observer)

Zach, 17, is a junior at FHS, and proudly wears the #65 as the Jackets’ long snapper. He also is proud to share the field with his younger brother.

“It has been a great experience learning and playing football with not only the brothers I have on the team, but the one I have at home as well,” said Zach.

He continued, “It has truly been a blessing to be able to grow as a football player and as a person with my little brother. The memories we have made together, on and off the football field, will be remembered and cherished forever.”

A sophomore at FHS, Jacob agreed, “It is pretty fun and cool. I like having him on the field with me.”

Jacob enjoys every opportunity to take the field as a fullback and defensive end, sporting the #30 Yellow Jacket jersey this season. He also sees opportunity to learn from his brother.

“My brother is very smart, and he can teach me a lot of things,” stated Jacob, who added that together they know a lot of things about football and can practice at home.

Jacob and Zach Derrick on the football field as Fairview Middle School Falcons.(Photo: submitted)

Their parents Amanda Currey and Tommy Derrick are extremely proud of the boys. “My parents love being able to watch their kids on the field. It makes their day knowing their kids have each other’s backs on the football field,” stated Zach.

Of course, both young men have the same goal for this season. “We hope to accomplish the same thing every year...a 3A Football State Championship,” said Zach.

Zach said right now he is cherishing every moment of football “Because unlike the bond you have with your brother, football doesn't last forever.”